Uniforms

Nadine Dorries: To ask the secretary of state of Health what progress has been made in the review of policy on the uniforms of medical staff in NHS hospitals to prevent healthcare associated infections; and if she will make a statement.

Ivan Lewis: The uniform and laundry review working group was established on the 25 July 2005, with its first meeting held on that day.
	The work carried out so far includes:
	a commissioned literature review on the microbiological and social importance of uniforms in relation to hospital acquired infections, carried out by Thames Valley University;
	a commissioned scientific study of the effect of water temperature on the removal of micro-organisms during laundering, carried out by University College London Hospitals. This work has recently been completed and the final report is awaited;
	the development of draft information which takes into account professional appearance, patient confidence and healthcare associated infections. This will be finalised once the final report on laundry temperatures is available; and
	a sub-group has been formed and has commenced work to refresh HSG 95(18) 'Hospital laundry arrangements for used and infected linen'.